Punjab Recalls Substandard Medicines After Failed Quality Tests

Immediate Recall of Substandard Medicines in Punjab

The Directorate of Drugs Control Punjab has issued a strong warning after multiple medicines were declared unsafe following laboratory testing. Officials confirmed that three medicines currently in circulation failed quality checks, prompting an immediate recall.

The affected medicines include:

• Infusion GEE-Sol (NS) 1000 mL (Sodium Chloride 0.9% w/v), batch 26A025 – declared substandard.
• Infusion GEE-Sol RL 500 mL (Compound Sodium Lactate), batch 25MM264 – declared substandard.
• Injection Neudex 1 mL (Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate 4 mg/mL), batch DX062 – declared adulterated.

Authorities have directed manufacturers, distributors, and market authorization holders to withdraw these batches immediately. They must also submit complete distribution records and upload recall documentation to the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) website.

Drug inspectors across Punjab have been instructed to intensify monitoring of supply chains and enforce strict action under the Drugs Act 1976 and the DRAP Act 2012. This includes ensuring that recalled medicines are removed from pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics without delay.

The public has been strongly advised to stop using the identified batches immediately due to potential health risks. Patients currently prescribed these medicines should consult their healthcare providers for safe alternatives.

This recall highlights the importance of strict pharmaceutical oversight in Pakistan. By enforcing quality standards and acting swiftly against substandard products, Punjab’s health authorities aim to protect patient safety and restore confidence in the healthcare system.

The incident serves as a reminder that vigilance in drug regulation is critical to safeguarding public health, especially when medicines are widely used in hospitals and clinics.